On March 18, 2025, European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela concluded a pivotal Central Asia tour with a significant visit to Uzbekistan. This visit marked a vital step in enhancing the partnership between Uzbekistan and the European Union (EU), centered around discussions with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. As the EU seeks to solidify its influence in the region, the bilateral talks focused on expanding digital connectivity, promoting sustainability, and fostering job creation, primarily through critical raw materials.
One of the key highlights was the advancement of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, which is expected to enhance trade networks across Central Asia. The discussions underscored both parties' acknowledgment of the increasing momentum in EU-Uzbekistan relations across political, trade, economic, investment, cultural, and humanitarian avenues. Furthermore, preparations for the historic Central Asia-EU summit set to take place in early April in Samarkand were also part of the agenda.
In the framework of the Team Europe Initiative on Digital Connectivity in Central Asia, Síkela observed the signing of agreements related to two significant EU-funded projects aimed at bolstering digital infrastructure. The first initiative, known as the Connectivity for Central Asia (C4CA) Project, seeks to enhance digital infrastructure and regional integration that could potentially spur economic growth and improve access to online services.
The second project, named the Satellite Connectivity for Underserved Populations Project, specifically targets providing high-speed internet access to remote and underserved communities throughout Central Asia. This initiative aligns with the EU’s broader goals of promoting inclusive digital connectivity. Síkela highlighted the importance of these projects: “European technology combined with Uzbek expertise can ensure more people have access to fast and secure internet, support businesses to grow, create new jobs, and improve living conditions in local communities. By investing in digital connectivity, we’re bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and ensuring that Central Asia is ready to benefit from the digital economy.”
Síkela's itinerary also included a visit to the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex. This significant industrial facility presented an opportunity for discussions on sustainable resource development and responsible investment in critical raw materials, thereby reinforcing economic ties between the EU and Uzbekistan.
In parallel, the geopolitical landscape of Central Asia is evolving. Just days before Síkela's visit, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev traveled to France on March 11-12, 2025, where a strategic partnership agreement was signed. This agreement signifies a surge in France's involvement with Uzbekistan and highlights the EU’s growing interest in Central Asia, particularly as Italy enhances relations with Kazakhstan.
The partnership forged between France and Uzbekistan seeks to address key cooperative efforts revolving around trade, infrastructure, and education, and aims to elevate their influence within geopolitics. The major economic agreements solidified during Mirziyoyev’s visit are expected to reach €5 billion, targeting infrastructure, transportation, and energy projects.
Moreover, one of the notable undertakings includes a uranium mining project led by France’s Orano in conjunction with Uzbekistan’s Navoiyuran, anticipated to yield about 700 metric tons of uranium annually. This reflects France's commitment to energy cooperation with Uzbekistan.
Alongside economic partnerships, defense and security cooperation has also been emphasized. Both nations committed to collaborative efforts in counterterrorism and addressing hybrid threats, specifically those related to narcotics, arms trafficking, and human trafficking.
The collaboration extends to cultural and educational realms, marked by the establishment of the Uzbek-French University and a boost in French language educational opportunities in Uzbekistan. Environmental sustainability initiatives are another focus, particularly addressing the ecological recovery of the Aral Sea region, expanding cooperation in energy transition and water management.
A notable outcome of these bilateral discussions is the establishment of the Uzbek-French Investment Council, which aims to foster economic cooperation and joint business ventures. The council's inaugural meeting is slated for June 2025 at the Tashkent International Investment Forum and will be co-chaired by the Uzbek Prime Minister.
The EU-Central Asia Summit planned for April 3-4, 2025, in Samarkand, will further solidify these growing ties, as it brings together EU leaders and Central Asian heads of state to navigate key issues regarding political cooperation, economic expansion, and security initiatives.
The evolving dynamics of collaboration in Central Asia mark an important phase in regional geopolitics, with countries like Uzbekistan welcoming engagement from the EU, balancing relationships with historical powers such as Russia and China, while simultaneously securing their interests on the global stage. These recent developments reflect a larger EU strategy aimed at increasing influence through sustainable partnerships and long-term engagement, ensuring a stable economic and geopolitical environment in Central Asia.
